OXNARD, Calif. –For the first time in over two weeks, running back Ezekiel Elliott was back at practice on Tuesday – sort of.
He was on the field in pads and went through individual drills. But the rookie from Ohio State didn't take part in team drills, and said he doesn't expect to be at full participation until next week.
That means don't expect Elliott to play against the Dolphins Friday night at AT&T Stadium, but he does plan on getting some preseason reps – probably against Seattle in Week 3.
Still, Elliott was just happy to be on the field.
"It felt good. I've been out for a while. It feels like forever," Elliott said. "My hammy didn't tighten up for anything. So I feel like I'm ready to go. I feel like I have missed a lot of reps. I've been doing a good job of paying attention and studying the playbook and going along with the team and doing whatever I can."
However, Elliott said he didn't feel "behind" the rest of the running backs despite missing the time. He's not the only back out of action as Lance Dunbar and Darren McFadden haven't practice once during camp here in Oxnard.
Elliott said standing on the sidelines for last week's preseason opener was harder than he expected, but made him anxious to return.
"I haven't missed any games in college. That was my first time being on the sideline and watching my team play," Elliott said. "That was a little bit tough. I know what's more important right now, just getting healthy and getting ready for the season."
When asked if he could've played last week if it were a regular-season contest, Elliott nodded.
"I think I would've toughed it out," he said.
